INSIGHTS / Blog

We spoke with Nastasha Velasco-Rodriguez, Head of Innovation at Digital Catapult, to hear about her experience as Guest Coach on the Transforming Telecoms Programme, the UK support programme for deep tech start-ups. Nastasha described her experience as a coach as overwhelmingly positive, driven by the inspiring start-ups and SMEs that participate.

“A lot of the companies in the Commercialisation through Partnerships programme are not only focused on creating impact but also bringing truly innovative solutions,” she explained. She highlighted the curiosity and proactive mindset of the founders as a key strength. “It’s been exciting to see founders who are eager to improve, engage with the telecoms ecosystem, and build through meaningful partnerships.”

Transforming Telecoms helps UKTIN engage with innovative startups and SMEs, teaching them about telecoms, facilitating connections, and offering mentorship to support their growth.  What stood out most to Nastasha from the programme is how practical and actionable the support is. “The materials provided are extremely relevant, and you can see the impact when startups start applying what they’ve learned.”

 

What motivated you to become a coach?

Nastasha shared three key drivers which are both deeply personal and mission-driven. “As a former business owner, I understand how difficult it can be to get the support you need, I wanted to give back and help others who may be facing similar challenges.”

Her role at Digital Catapult also aligns. “Our focus is accelerating better futures through applied deep tech, and this programme enables us to support companies that are driving innovation. It’s mission-aligned and part of our broader goal to strengthen telecoms and other industries through technology.”

Finally, Nastasha’s curiosity drives her engagement. “I’m fascinated by the diverse innovations that startups bring to the table and how they plan to build solutions that disrupt industries. That curiosity fuels my passion for coaching.”

 

What has been a memorable moment for you?

Two moments stand out for Nastasha. “The first cohort was particularly memorable because it was my first real glimpse of the programme’s impact. Seeing the diverse startups and how they were developing action plans really opened my eyes to the potential here.”

She also recalled a powerful experience from the November cohort. “It was incredible to see how many startups were working on real challenges that larger companies are facing today. At least half of the cohort were tackling issues in telecoms that are highly relevant to the ecosystem, and that made the programme feel even more impactful.”

 

What did the programme give the startups?

Delivered through accessible blended learning, as part of UKTIN, Nastasha emphasised the value of the network the programme creates. “Business is built on relationships, and this programme helps startups build a strong, diverse network that’s crucial for long-term growth. It also helps them access critical intelligence and insights faster, accelerating their learning process.”

She also highlighted how the programme accelerates learning. “Because it connects startups with a broad network, it gives them access to critical industry intelligence and insights much faster than they would get on their own. It speeds up the learning process, which is incredibly powerful when you’re trying to refine a solution or break into the telecoms space.”

Finally, Nastasha pointed out how the programme helps mitigate risk. “By sharing best practices and facilitating connections with experts in key areas, the programme reduces the risk of failure for startups. They gain access to valuable advice and real-world lessons without having to go through the long and costly process of figuring everything out on their own. That kind of guidance is hugely helpful.”

 

What sets the programme apart?

What distinguishes the Transforming Telecoms programme is its focus on broadening the definition of partnerships.  “It goes beyond just commercial partnerships and helps startups and SMEs understand the role that government, academia, and other ecosystem players, like accelerators, can have in their journey. It may seem simple, but that increased awareness of the wider ecosystem is a game-changer for many participants.”

She also noted how the programme expands the thinking of startups around what partnerships can achieve, helping them unlock new opportunities through collaboration.

 

How has the training benefited the companies?

Nastasha outlined three essential ways the partnership has helped startups: “First, we focus on connecting cohort members with industry knowledge and leads in sectors like transport, energy, telecommunications, and advanced manufacturing. Second, we help them refine their positioning—giving them feedback on how to approach investors or other potential partners. Finally, we introduce them to other relevant Digital Catapult services so they can continue their journey beyond the programme.”

She shared a couple of examples where the collaboration has led to impactful connections. “For example, we’ve been able to refine their pitch and identify valuable connections. Another example is Digiflec working on smart asset solutions for transport, which we’re currently facilitating a connection between them and a large transport operator to explore how they can learn from each other. The transport company is keen to understand their solution, while the startup can gain valuable industry insights in return. It’s a powerful example of how we connect startups with industry leads and knowledge in areas where Digital Catapult has strong expertise.”

Nastasha also described a recent follow-up. “Just yesterday, we met with another cohort member in person. He’s leading a team of four and aiming to grow to ten this year. We discussed how Digital Catapult can support him through our field labs, industry connections, and business growth services. It’s exciting to see how we can help these companies scale through tailored resources and introductions.”

She also noted how the programme facilitates ongoing support both online and through networking opportunities. “It’s not just about the sessions—it’s about continuing those relationships and providing ongoing support to help startups scale and grow through our industry knowledge and networks.”

 

How does participating in this programme align with Digital Catapult’s mission and goals?

“The programme is a perfect fit with Digital Catapult’s mission to accelerate better futures through applied deep tech,” Nastasha explained.

“We’re able to connect with startups that are driving innovation and creating real change in industries like telecoms. It also aligns with our focus on strengthening future networks and driving innovation in telecoms and beyond.”

“I think we (SETsquared and Digital Catapult) complement each other really well, especially given our shared focus on creating value and impact across different stakeholders in the ecosystem.”

 

What lessons have you learned from being a coach?

Nastasha shared two key lessons: “First, follow up with the innovators you meet. It’s essential to continue those conversations, as they can lead to valuable partnerships and projects.”

Her second lesson focuses on impact. “It’s fantastic to share a space where we’re all learning and growing, but it’s even more powerful to ask, What impact can we create together? That’s one of the great things about this programme; it pushes us not just to improve and grow but also to reflect on the bigger picture. What kind of change do we want to drive together? What conversations do we need to keep building momentum around? That collective focus on impact has been really inspiring.”

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